Bethune Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Bethune Pond Dam, located in Topsfield, Massachusetts, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 14.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 9 feet, the dam serves as a controlled spillway for the tributary to Ipswich River. With a normal storage capacity of 11 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 4.8 acres and drains a 0.5 square mile watershed area.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition as of its last assessment in May 2012. It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Massachusetts, with inspections conducted every 5 years. The risk assessment for Bethune Pond Dam is very high, indicating the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in case of emergencies. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and no emergency action plan or inundation maps have been prepared as of the latest available data.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Bethune Pond Dam will find it to be a unique recreational structure with a vital role in managing water flow in the Ipswich River watershed. As a privately owned dam in a picturesque location, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management in the face of potential hazards. With its controlled spillway and significant hazard potential, Bethune Pond Dam presents both challenges and opportunities for maintaining a balance between recreation and safety in the region.
Dam Length |
130 |
Dam Height |
14.5 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO IPSWICH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Bethune Pond Dam
Ipswich Road Topsfield